It's almost summer time and the pool is calling out! Swimming comes with a lot of benefits, but only if you choose to swim healthy and safe! Whether you are swimming in a public pool or your own, keep in mind that we share the water we swim in, and we must to do our part to help keep everyone healthy. To help protect yourself and other swimmers from germs or injury, here are a few easy and effective steps all swimmers can take each time we take a swim.​

Before taking the plunge…

Check the pool!Injuries and drownings are less likely in pools that have trained staff and adequate safety equipment. Before you swim or allow your children to swim, check the pool using the following checklist:

If you are at a public pool, check the pool’s latest inspection results.

Make sure the drain at the bottom of the deep end is visible and clear from debris.

Check that the drain covers at the bottom appear to be in tact, secured and in good condition.

Check for a lifeguard.

If no lifeguard is on duty or you are at a private pool, check for a rescue ring or pole.

Make sure no chemicals are out in the open.

Always use the buddy system for swimming.

Be clean and courteous! Keep the pee, poop, sweat, blood, and dirt out of the water.

Stay out of the water if you are sick.

Stay out of the water if you have an open wound that cannot be covered with a waterproof bandage.

Shower before you get in the water.

Protect yourself and others!

Protect against sunburn by using a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Use well-fitting Coast Guard approved life jackets for flotation assistance rather than foam or air-filled toys.

Once you are in...

Don’t swallow the water.

Keep an eye on children at all times, kids can drown in seconds and in silence. Even small amounts of water can cause delayed drowning.

Don't use the bathroom in the pool.

Every hour—everyone out!

Take kids on bathroom breaks at least once an hour.

Check diapers, and change them in a bathroom or diaper-changing area–not poolside–to keep germs away from the pool.

Reapply sunscreen and allow time to dry.

Hydrate!

Dry ears thoroughly with a towel after swimming to prevent ear infections.